Taylor Sheridan is on a roll. The
actor-turned-screenwriter-turned-director has made a niche for himself as an
incredible storyteller, albeit via some very dark tales. After penning the
acclaimed Sicario in 2015 and Hell or High Water in 2016,
Sheridan moves to the director’s seat for his latest work, Wind River.

Jeremy Renner plays Cory Lambert a US Fish and Wildlife working
on the Wind River Indian Reservation in Wyoming (the film was shot almost
entire in Summit County, Utah). While investigating cougars responsible for
killing cattle, Lambert discovers the body of 18-year-old Natalie (Kelsey Chow)
a woman who lived on the reservation. FBI Special Agent Jane Banner (Elizabeth
Olsen) is called in from Las Vegas to investigate. Also helping is Ben (Graham
Greene), the tribal police chief. As the investigation proceeds, Cory must deal
with emotions over his own daughter’s death two years prior, while trying to
comfort Natalie’s grieving father Martin (Gil Burningham). Using his skills as
hunter, Cory and Special Agent Banner track down clues and the disturbing
truth behind Natalie’s death, culminating with a deadly confrontation in the wilderness.

Wind River is an excellent film, showcasing Sheridan’s
gift for cinematic tragedy. Perhaps his greatest skill is drawing authentic and
sympathetic characters and interpreting those persona to the screen in simple,
understated fashion. Jeremy Renner gives his best performance since Hurt
Locker, depicting a methodical man with deep scars hiding just under his
tough exterior. Elizabeth Olsen’s performance is equally brilliant, providing
an outsider’s view of the difficult reservation life. Graham Greene, Gil Burningham
and Kelsey Chow round a great supporting cast, which also includes Jon Bernthal
in a short cameo (no spoilers).

Wind River adds to Sheridan’s growing list of quality
films, and I look forward to his next projects.